6 golden rules, tips & tricks when planning your trip to Las Vegas

What happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas. But how do you plan that perfect trip? Sure, you can always go unprepared, but only if you're not interested in seeing any sold-out shows, dining at five-star Michelin-rated restaurants, or doing any sightseeing. Even if you're a first-time visitor, you're probably aware that it's essential to moderate your alcohol intake. Because spending a day nursing a hangover is a lost opportunity in Vegas, and we won't recommend setting a specific amount to lose!

So, without further ado, here are our 6 golden rules for a perfect trip to Las Vegas.

 1. Don't fall for the expensive snacks at the convenience stores in your hotel, especially if you're looking for a midnight snack or a bottle of water. Instead, plan ahead and save some space in your luggage for snacks. Consider bringing a collapsible water bottle for easy packing and carrying. Some great snack options to bring along include nuts, almonds - which are life-changing, or pork, beef jerky, which will also change your life for the better.

 2. A simple hotel can make or break your trip in Las Vegas. While some hotels offer a luxurious experience, they may not have fast food options on site. On the other hand, budget-friendly hotels have fast food restaurants readily available. It's also important to note that some hotels are not located on the Vegas strip and may require a taxi ride to attractions like Penn & Teller. Similarly, if you stay at the Trump hotel, which doesn't have a casino, you'll need to venture elsewhere to gamble. Don't worry though, as you can always visit other hotels to explore their amenities and take touristy photos.

 3. To ensure that you get to see the shows and dine at the restaurants you want, book in advance. Many popular shows in Vegas sell out well before the actual performance date, so make sure you reserve your tickets ahead of time. The same applies to high-end dining experiences. If you want to secure a seat during the busy season, be sure to reserve your table at the same time you book your trip. Waiting until you arrive might result in disappointment, so plan ahead to avoid missing out on your top choices.

 4. When it comes to transportation in Vegas, be careful with the advice you find online. Some people suggest taking a shuttle instead of a taxi to avoid being ripped off, but this may not always be the best option. Shuttles can have long lines, and the cost is often the same as a taxi ride. Additionally, many taxis in Vegas offer coupon books with discounts for restaurants, shows, and nightclubs. So, it might be a good idea to take a taxi instead. While some taxi drivers may take longer routes to run up the meter, this is not common in Vegas. To be safe, you can either tell the driver the route you want them to take or use your phone to navigate. Another tip is to be friendly with your driver and mention that you're excited to be in Vegas. This could help you score some insider tips or recommendations.

 5. While some sources claim that nobody dresses up in Las Vegas anymore, that's not necessarily accurate. The truth is that you can wear whatever you want. Nobody is going to judge you whether you're sporting a suit or cargo shorts and a tank top. If you feel like dressing up, go ahead and do it. And if you typically wear a suit every day to work, and want to use Vegas as an opportunity to dress more provocatively, then go for it. Don that metallic button-up shirt with the neon pink tie and booty shorts!

 6. If you're interested in gambling, start by obtaining a membership card. You don't need to be a guest at the casino to obtain one, but if you are staying there, use the card for every purchase you make, including gambling, room service, and merchandise. By doing so, you earn points that can be used to redeem discounts on future visits. And if you want to play Roulette but are apprehensive since the minimum bet is $20 and you're not a high roller, take a stroll and check out other tables with lower minimums. And don't forget to tip the dealer, especially if you win big!